Is Your Medication Boosting Your Risk for a Painful Sunburn?

There's a well-known link between the sun’s ultraviolet rays and skin cancer, so you're probably aware you should use sun protection when you're outdoors. But what you may not know is that certain medications, supplements and skin care products make your skin more sun sensitive and cause a painful, sunburn-like reaction—even with minimal sun exposure.

What medications cause sun sensitivity?

Medications that cause sun sensitivity can be topical medications or systemic medications. Topical medications are applied to your skin and come in creams, ointments, gels and foams. Systemic medications work throughout the body and are given orally (usually in pill form), through an intravenous line (IV) or by injection.

If sun sensitivity is a side effect of a medication, it’s usually listed on the medication label. However, you should still read all instructions, medication guides and package inserts carefully. Commonly used medications that increase your skin’s sun sensitivity include:

Topical acne medications: Retinol and prescription retinoids such as Retin-A.

Remember to reapply. Sweating and swimming can make your sunscreen wear off, so don’t forget to reapply. Even if you’re not swimming or sweating, reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Seek shade. Whenever possible, stay in the shade. It’s also a good idea to avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

Wear sun-protective clothing. If you’re taking medication that makes you sun sensitive, you might want to consider clothing that offers UV protection. Many sportswear companies make UV-protective clothing designed specifically for outdoor activities such as swimming, golf, running, cycling or tennis.

Protect your head, ears and lips. Your scalp, ears and lips can be especially vulnerable to sun damage. Wear a hat with a wide brim that goes all the way around or apply sunscreen to your ears and head. Also, be sure to use a lip balm that contains sunscreen.

If you’re at high risk of developing skin cancer, you should be especially careful when using medications, supplements or skin products that increase your sun sensitivity. Risk factors for skin cancer include:

A history of sunburns, especially in childhood

A history of sun exposure due to work or recreational activities

A personal or family history of skin cancer

Blond or red hair

Blue or green eyes

Exposure to tanning beds

Fair skin or skin that burns or freckles easily

Although some medications are necessary to maintain your health, your doctor may be able to recommend another medication that doesn’t cause sun sensitivity. If you’re traveling to a tropical location or planning to spend a lot of time in the sun and you’reusing sun-sensitive topical medications, your doctor may recommend stopping them temporarily.

If you have concerns about your medications and sun sensitivity, talk to your doctor. Don’t stop taking any medications or change the dosages without checking with your doctor first.

To schedule an appointment with a Virtua dermatologist for a skin checkup, call 1-888-847-8823.

Updated June 21, 2018

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